When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.
Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. And at this sound the multitude came together, and they were bewildered, because each one was hearing them speak in his own language. And they were amazed and astonished, saying, “Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? And how is it that we hear, each of us in his own native language? Parthians and Medes and Elamites and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabians—we hear them telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God.” And all were amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, “What does this mean?” But others mocking said, “They are filled with new wine.”
(Acts 2:1-13 ESV)
Today we celebrate Pentecost Sunday. I love reading this account and putting myself in the shoes of those who lived it. One the Disiciples, what a wonderful gift that was given to them. How would I react? Jesus told them of many things before He left but...still...wow.
Then the devout men from every nation. Think of going to a strange place and hearing a language you didn't understand and everyone is speaking it. When my brother was in Iowa City hospital there were two Spanish men there too and their familys were large. The waiting room was full of these people and my sister and I. I had Spanish in highschool but I still only understood a few words out of each sentance. I was confused. So imagine these mas as they walked down the street hearing someone preaching God's word in their language. I would want to grab them and hold them so I could listen to my own language. And still there were the doubters who thought the apostles were drunk and that is how they spoke in different languages...that part makes me smile. Most drunks have less clarity....that the doubters would choose that to blame it on...just makes me smile.
Celebrate the Holy Spirit always in your life. May God bless you all this week!